Pond survey

Wednesday 17th September was survey day!

The weather was fine and we arrived armed with net and trays, ID books, pH meter and hope. The pond looked good with a healthy water level and the beginnings of plant growth evident on the surface. We measured the size of the pond and took the pH of the water (pH6.7)

The pond is completely shaded by surrounding trees, the majority of which are Ash, but there are Sycamore, Hawthorn and Blackthorn as well. Plants growing around the edge included Arum maculatum ( lords and ladies), Geranium robertinium(herb robert) and Willow herb.

The pond had a partial covering of plant growth, the most prolific species being Callitriche vulgaris (water starwort) along with a small amount of Duckweed.

water starwort

Sampling the water was based on the two mesohabitats, the clear surface water and that covered with plant growth. Although the first clearwater dip yielded very little, just a few daphnia a couple of cyclops and a small worm, we were thrilled that our pond was viable. The second area with the starwort and duckweed present was much better, we found water slater (or hog louse), cyclops, lots of daphnia and a small leech.

A very successful morning ended with a visit from three young men from the adjacent school, obviously visiting their regular smoking haunt. We tried to engage them with what we were doing but after initial curiosity they quickly became more interested in throwing objects into the pond behind our backs.

The ongoing problems we have with vandalism and litter at this site are not going to go away. Confronting the culprits has only stimulated a fresh bout of damage, with the addition of several pallets and lumps of wood in recent days.

To respond to this we are having a pond clearing party this coming Saturday 27th. Sepember. Lets hope the vandals get bored before we do.